Electrical Shock Hazards
Each year, statistics demonstrate the literal power electricity has to take people off the job. Thousands of people are injured each year. Statistics from our neighbours down south say that on average, in the United States one person is killed every day from electrical shock. Of the hazards present with electricity, the most common injuries are as a result of electrical shock.
Electrical shock can occur from any device that conducts an electrical current; the human body is a conductor of electricity. When a person interferes an electrical circuit, his or her body becomes what completes the circuit, causing electrical shock as waves of electricity move through the body.
The severity of an electrical shock will depend on a number of factors. These include the circuit voltage, the current that is flowing through the body, how long the electricity makes contact with the body (and how large an area is contacted), and body resistance. Body resistance can include how wet or dry the contact area is. Should a worker on a hot day be exposed to an electrical shock, the severity may be worsened due to perspiration.
Electrical shock has a number of different effects. It is likely that everyone will experience an electrical shock in their lifetime, static electricity not included. The effects can span a large range from the tingling of fingers after being shocked while unplugging an appliance to cardiac arrest after coming in contact with a power line.
The strength of an electrical current is identified by milliamperes (mA). Barely noticeable sensations occur at 1 mA. The majority of cases are experienced at levels between 1 mA and 3 mA. Between 3 mA and 9 mA, the sensations become more painful. At this point, a person’s natural reflexes will kick in so that a person who is being shocked will let go or get out of the circuit’s path immediately.
Where electrical shock becomes especially dangerous is as the strength surpasses the 9 mA mark. Here, it causes muscle contractions making it difficult, or sometimes impossible, for a person being shocked to let go or remove themselves from the circuit. Burns at this stage are very common.
Not surprisingly, as mA increases in strength, so does the severity of the effects. At 25 mA or more, respiratory paralysis, ventricular fibrillation, and heart paralysis can occur, all of which are very dangerous and potentially fatal effects.
With the chance of severely disabling one’s self or losing one’s life, the importance of knowing the electric hazards in the workplace is paramount. Preventative measures include grounding, insulation, guarding, electrical protective devices, personal protective equipment, and safe work practices.
To ensure employees fully understand how electricity works and how it can affect their day-to-day work procedures, a safety training course is crucial. Many organizations are now offering electrical safety online courses.
Matthew Albertson is author of this article. To know more about electrical safety online course, whmis training and firefighting online courses, please visit http://www.safetytrainingassociation.com
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